HESI A2 Chemistry: What to Expect and How to Prepare

| Published date

Last Updated

If you’re gearing up for the HESI A2 entrance exam, you know that the chemistry section can be a bit of a wildcard. Sure, it’s not rocket science, but it’s definitely chemistry, and you can’t afford to go in unprepared. In this guide, we’ll break down what to expect in the HESI A2 chemistry section, cover the key topics you need to know, and give you some solid tips to help you ace it. Let’s dive in.

What is the HESI A2 Chemistry Section?

The HESI A2 chemistry section is designed to test your understanding of basic chemistry concepts. If you’re planning to enter a nursing or healthcare program, you need to show that you know your stuff when it comes to atoms, molecules, and chemical reactions. Here’s what you’re in for:

  • Number of Questions: Typically, the chemistry section has about 25 questions. However, this can vary slightly depending on your test setup.

What Topics Are Covered in the HESI A2 Chemistry Section?

So, what exactly do you need to know? Here’s a rundown of the key topics covered in the HESI A2 chemistry section:

  • Basic Chemistry Concepts: This includes the structure of atoms, elements, and compounds. You should understand the periodic table, electron configurations, and chemical bonding.
  • Chemical Reactions: Be prepared for questions about types of chemical reactions, like synthesis, decomposition, single replacement, and double replacement. You’ll also need to know about reaction rates and equilibrium.
  • Acids and Bases: Get ready to tackle concepts like pH, pOH, and the properties of acids and bases. Know the difference between strong and weak acids and bases, and how to calculate pH.
  • Measurements and Conversions: Chemistry involves a lot of units, so be comfortable converting between moles, grams, liters, and other common measurements.

Tips for Acing the HESI A2 Chemistry Section

Now that you know what you’re up against, let’s talk about how to ace the HESI A2 chemistry section. Here are some tips to help you out:

1. Review the Basics

Start by reviewing the basic concepts. If it’s been a while since you studied chemistry, take some time to refresh your memory. Our HESI A2 chemistry study guide is perfect for this—it covers all the key topics in detail and breaks them down into easy-to-understand explanations.

2. Practice with Sample Questions

The best way to get ready for the HESI A2 chemistry section is to practice with sample questions. This helps you get a feel for the types of questions you’ll face and how to manage your time. Practice answering questions quickly but accurately, since you don’t have a ton of time to spare.

3. Understand the Periodic Table

The periodic table is your friend. Make sure you understand how it’s organized, what the groups and periods mean, and how to read the information provided. This knowledge will help you answer questions about elements and their properties.

4. Learn Common Chemical Reactions

Brush up on the different types of chemical reactions and how to identify them. Know the basic formulas for common reactions, like combustion, synthesis, and decomposition. This knowledge will come in handy during the test.

5. Stay Calm and Focused

The HESI A2 chemistry section can be stressful, but don’t let it get to you. Stay calm, take a deep breath, and focus on the questions. If you’re stuck, try to eliminate incorrect answers and go with your best guess. Remember, you can’t skip questions, so you need to answer each one before moving on.

Need More Help? Check Out Our HESI A2 Chemistry Study Guide

If you’re looking for a comprehensive resource to help you prepare for the HESI A2 chemistry section, our study guide has you covered. It provides in-depth explanations of key concepts and includes plenty of practice questions to help you build your confidence.

With these tips and the right preparation, you can ace the HESI A2 chemistry section. Good luck, and let’s get ready to crush this exam!

Top Picks

Our Top Study Guides

Thousands of students trust us to guide them through their exam prep. Here are our best-selling study guides, each designed to help you succeed with expert insights, practice questions, and effective strategies.

Knowledge Center

Latest Article & Blog

Stay informed and sharpen your skills with our expert blog posts. From study tips to exam insights, we provide the knowledge you need to stay ahead of the curve.

  • HESI A2 Math Tips: 21 Strategies to Solve Questions Faster and Improve Your Score

    HESI A2 Math Tips: 21 Strategies to Solve Questions Faster and Improve Your Score

    HESI A2 Math Tips: Learn 21 proven strategies to solve questions faster, avoid common mistakes, master conversions, ratios, percentages, and improve your HESI A2 Math score with confidence.

    Read more →

  • HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Tips: 25 Study Strategies That Actually Work

    HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Tips: 25 Study Strategies That Actually Work

    HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Tips: Learn 25 proven study strategies, high-yield topics, and exam techniques to improve your score with structured practice, guides, and test-taking strategies.

    Read more →

  • HESI A2 Study Tips: 15 Proven Strategies to Improve Your Score and Pass With Confidence

    HESI A2 Study Tips: 15 Proven Strategies to Improve Your Score and Pass With Confidence

    Discover 15 proven HESI A2 study tips to improve your score, strengthen weak areas, and prepare more effectively with expert strategies, practice tests, and study guides.

    Read more →

  • What Happens If You Fail the HESI A2? Your Next Steps and How to Come Back Stronger

    What Happens If You Fail the HESI A2? Your Next Steps and How to Come Back Stronger

    What happens if you fail the HESI A2? Learn what to do next, how retakes work, common reasons students fail, and proven strategies to improve your score on your next attempt.

    Read more →

  • Can You Use a Calculator on the HESI A2? What Every Student Needs to Know

    Can You Use a Calculator on the HESI A2? What Every Student Needs to Know

    Can you use a calculator on the HESI A2? Learn the calculator rules, common math topics, study tips, and proven strategies to improve your HESI A2 Math score with confidence

    Read more →

  • How Long Should You Study for the HESI A2? A Realistic Study Plan That Works

    How Long Should You Study for the HESI A2? A Realistic Study Plan That Works

    How long should you study for the HESI A2? Discover realistic study timelines, a proven 6-week study plan, expert tips, free practice tests, and study resources to help you pass with confidence.

    Read more →

Need a Test Bank?

SPIN TO WIN Discounts for Study Guides Purchase!

  • Try your lucky to get discount coupon
  • 1 spin per email
  • No cheating
Try Your Lucky
Never
Remind later
No thanks